Wallet-Friendly Wines
It is truly remarkable that our human spirit allows us to become more creative in the face of adversity. Consider the COVID-19 pandemic. Most of us had to re-think the way we work, shop, and socialize. We changed our approaches and moved forward. We did not wither on the vine. Now inflation is forcing us to change spending habits and shift dollars from things we like to buy to things we need to buy. We like wine (ok, we love wine), but we need food. So how do those of us who are passionate about wine re-think our wine selections?
The good news is that well-priced, good quality wines have always been available. You just need to know where to look.
This week I was enjoying a 2020 Bulgariana Rosé. This was an amazingly delightful dry rosé produced in Bulgaria’s Thracian Valley from the native Gamza grape. At a cost of about $14 a bottle, I enjoyed it far more than similarly priced commercially popular rosés. While you may not be familiar with Bulgaria as a wine region, be adventurous! Vineyards have been tended in the Thracian Valley for centuries. It was a good bet.
Searching for a red wine to pair with something on the grill? Look to Spain. I am always excited about wines from Spain, especially red wines. The 2018 Cune Crianza is a wonderful cherry-berry, spicey, “drink now” style of wine. At around $14 or less for a bottle, this Tempranillo based blend is perfect for any meat sizzling on the grill. Ready to challenge yourself with unfamiliar grapes as I did with the Bulgariana Rosé? Try a 2020 Bodegas Rectoral de Amandi Matilda Nieves Mencia. Made with 85% Mencia and some Garnacha and Souson in the blend, the blackberry fruit and soft tannins in this Spanish red will pair perfectly with grilled pork loin. I feel victorious with this one at under $16.
For whites, I turn to Italy. While Italy may be famous for its red wines, including pricey Barolos and Super Tuscans, I am never disappointed in the range of white wines available at reasonable prices. Arneis from Roero, Vermentino from Sardinia, and Trebbiano from Veneto are just a few examples of white wines that are both food and wallet friendly. A medium-bodied white such as the 2021 Zenato Lugana San Benedetto Trebbiano is a favorite at around $20.
There are many, many other well priced quality wines produced in regions throughout the world. Portugal, South Africa, Argentina and Chile among others are producing some truly enjoyable well priced wines. New Zealand continues to export a perennial favorite – Sauvignon Blanc – at price points that seem to have escaped inflation. So, as you change your approach to buying wine, commit to spending some time in the aisles of the wine store (in person or virtually) exploring regions and grapes that are less familiar to you. You will be pleasantly surprised. And your wallet will thank you.
Cheers!